This chapter, which is based on Diwan and Haidar (2017), looks into a country case where clientelism, rather than an attempt to exclude politically suspect firms from the marketplace, is likely to be the driving political force behind the tight relations connecting politicians and some firms....

This essay primarily examines the significant economic, political, religious, and demographic disparities among Mediterranean-bordering countries, with a central focus on the migrant issue in the region. It delves into the array of international agreements formed by both the Italian government...

We study how large shocks impact individuals’ skilling decisions using data from a large, government-sponsored, online learning platform in Saudi Arabia. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about a massive increase in online skilling, and demand shifted towards courses that offered...

This paper focuses on the challenges posed by high public debt and demographic decline in Italy. The interplay between these two factors threatens debt sustainability and hinders economic growth. A large debt stock constrains economic policy choices and limits national sovereignty. Meanwhile,...

This document examines Madagascar's economic potential and business environment to guide foreign investors toward high-growth sectors. Based on PESTEL and SWOT analyses using the World Bank's Business Ready report, it highlights key advantages: streamlined business registration, low operational...

This study critically evaluates gender governance and leadership strategies within Zamboanga City, Philippines, focusing on their impact on policy formulation and administrative practices. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative surveys, in-depth interviews, and...

This study evaluates the efficacy of e-Government initiatives in addressing local governance challenges in Zamboanga City, Philippines. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research examines how digital tools have improved administrative processes and service delivery, identifies key barriers...

Anecdotal evidence and generalisations abound concerning the employment outcomes of secondary school and university leavers, but there is very little solid, accurate information on what these groups in African countries do after they have completed their education. Using tracer surveys, this...

The war in Iraq initiated in March 2003 triggered a wave of violence and turmoil in the country, exposing households to insecurity and to instability in daily life. The level of violence has varied across provinces, the south and centre areas being the most affected. Using the different...

The agriculture sector is the predominant employer of the active workforce in Ghana. Among this workforce, women constitute majority which invariable imply their role cannot be overemphasized. This study therefore examines how the socioeconomic characteristics of women affects local economic...